The Delaware State Board of Medicine Rules on Advertising for Medical Doctors are designed to protect the public from false or misleading advertising. The rules state that all advertising must be truthful and accurate, and must not contain any false or deceptive statements.

Specifically, the rules prohibit advertising that:

Makes false or misleading statements about a physician’s qualifications, training, experience, or services.

Makes false or misleading statements about the quality or efficacy of a medical treatment or procedure.

Makes false or misleading statements about the fees or costs of medical services.

Uses testimonials or endorsements that are not truthful or substantiated.

Compares a physician’s services to the services of another physician in a way that is false or misleading.

Contains any other information that is false or misleading, or that could reasonably be expected to deceive the public.

The rules also require that all advertising must be consistent with the physician’s professional conduct and ethical obligations. For example, advertising cannot be self-laudatory or contain any statements that could be considered unprofessional.

The Delaware State Board of Medicine takes advertising violations very seriously, and physicians who violate the rules can be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of their license.

Here are some additional tips for physicians who are advertising their services:

Be clear and concise in your advertising. Avoid using jargon or technical language that the public may not understand.

Be honest and truthful in your advertising. Don’t make any claims that you can’t support with evidence.

Be respectful of your colleagues. Avoid comparing your services to the services of other physicians in a negative way.

Avoid making any guarantees or promises about the results of a medical treatment or procedure.

Have your advertising reviewed by an attorney or other qualified professional before you release it to the public.

If you have any questions about the Delaware State Board of Medicine Rules on Advertising for Medical Doctors, you should contact the Board directly.

Obviously we are not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice, if your reading this you are likely in the healthcare industry and should speak with an Ethics Attorney or your Board. This content is for informational purpose only.

Sasmita Pati